Directions to follow

1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in the boiling water. Stir well until completely dissolved.
2. Next, add the cold water and mix thoroughly.
3. Whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix. Keep mixing until the mixture thickens slightly and is smooth.
4. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture is creamy and combined.
5. Add in the drained mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows if you choose to use them. Stir carefully to maintain that light texture.
6. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving this Orange Dreamsicle Salad, get creative! Serve it in individual cups for a fun presentation, or scoop it into a beautiful glass bowl to show off the vibrant colors. You might want to garnish each serving with a sprig of mint for an elegant touch. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and fresh salads, making it an excellent addition to a summer meal.

How to store & freeze

To keep your Orange Dreamsicle Salad fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. If you plan on making it in advance, it’s best to avoid adding the marshmallows until just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.

While I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad due to its whipped texture (which doesn’t hold up well once defrosted), it’s simple to prepare in smaller batches if you’re looking to control portions.

Pro chef tips

1. Chill Your Bowl: Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the Cool Whip. It helps keep the whipped cream light and airy.
2. Use Fresh Mandarins: If you want a fresh twist, consider using freshly segmented oranges instead of canned. Just make sure to remove any seeds.
3. Add Zest: A touch of orange zest in the pudding mixture can enhance the citrus flavor beautifully!

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:

• Berry Dreamsicle: Swap out the mandarin oranges for a cup of mixed berries for a berry-infused delight.
• Nutty Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free whipped topping and a plant-based pudding mix to create a vegan-friendly version.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation is quick, taking about 20 minutes. Just remember to allow at least an hour for chilling before serving.

Can I use sugar-free Jell-O and pudding?
Absolutely! Sugar-free options are a great way to reduce calories while still enjoying this delicious treat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator covered tightly, and add any toppings right before serving.

This Orange Dreamsicle Salad is not just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a sweet indulgence at home, this recipe is sure to create new delicious memories!